Generator hookup questions
#1
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Generator hookup questions
Hi, I'm trying to prepare for winter, and I'd really like to get a generator and the necessary transfer switch to wire it up to my circuit breakers.
Not being that familiar with electrical work, I think I'm shooting for an idea that may just not be possible. My idea is that I'd have a simple switch between utility/generator (so I'm not electrocuting anyone up line!), and when the power is out, I'd flip off all my breakers, flip this switch, turn on the generator, and switch back on the breakers that I want to use.
The transfer switches I'm looking at seem to have a different opinion that I don't care for, where you must power 5-10 predetermined breakers. This seems very limiting! I know my hot water heater pulls a lot, but I'd love to be able to let my generator power only my hot water heater for an hour to warm it up if need be.
Is my ideal setup even possible?
Thanks!
Not being that familiar with electrical work, I think I'm shooting for an idea that may just not be possible. My idea is that I'd have a simple switch between utility/generator (so I'm not electrocuting anyone up line!), and when the power is out, I'd flip off all my breakers, flip this switch, turn on the generator, and switch back on the breakers that I want to use.
The transfer switches I'm looking at seem to have a different opinion that I don't care for, where you must power 5-10 predetermined breakers. This seems very limiting! I know my hot water heater pulls a lot, but I'd love to be able to let my generator power only my hot water heater for an hour to warm it up if need be.
Is my ideal setup even possible?
Thanks!
#3
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Look into what's called an Interlock Kit. It prevents backfeeding and only allows one power source at a time and you can pick which breakers you power.
#5
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Sorry for ignoring both of you, my notifications ended up in spam! The interlock idea seems rather appealing to me as a DIYer, and I certainly wouldn't be interested in bypassing it. I will have to check with my local codes to make sure I'm not doing anything illegal!